Method of playing a slot machine

ABSTRACT

A slot machine that continually displays live action on a main screen area while displaying the end of gaming actions not resulting in a payout on at least one additional screen area. The machine also causes additional screen areas to merge with the main screen area to form a large screen area to display gaming actions resulting in a payout.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to slot machines and methods therefor and, more specifically, to a video slot machine that utilizes a plurality of screens to display different portions of a gaming action at the same time to increase the attractiveness and speed of the game.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The first mechanical slot machine was invented over a century ago. Due to their popularity, slot machines can now be found in most casinos around the world. As technology has progressed, slot machines have increasingly utilized video display screens to display a representation of the results of the various reels, or the random number generator, of the slot machine.

Unfortunately, many of the different types of video slot machines remain very simple in their display, oftentimes merely presenting a video representation of the various reels dictating the result of each play. Accordingly, using video representations of different spectator events instead of a video representation of the various reels might result in a more attractive slot machine game.

This invention provides a new slot machine that displays different gaming actions, such as baseball plays, the different gaming actions representing the results produced by the reels or a random number generator, or the random number generator, of the slot machine. The invention also utilizes various displays, so that gaming actions representing a result that is not favorable to the user can be displayed on an additional screen area, while subsequent gaming actions can be displayed on a main screen area regardless of what is displayed on the additional screen area.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one embodiment, a method of playing a slot machine is disclosed, comprising, in combination, the steps of: permitting a user to initiate play of a slot machine having at least one gaming action, displaying at least a beginning portion of at least one gaming action of the slot machine on a main screen area, awarding the user a payout when the at least one gaming action meets a first predetermined value, displaying on at least one additional screen area an end portion of the at least one gaming action displayed on the main screen area when the gaming action fails to meet the first predetermined value, and displaying at least a beginning portion of a subsequent gaming action on the main screen area prior to the conclusion of the end portion of the gaming action being displayed on the at least one additional screen area.

In accordance with another embodiment, a method of playing a slot machine is disclosed, comprising, in combination, the steps of: providing a random number generator, permitting a user to initiate play of a slot machine having at least one gaming action, displaying at least a beginning portion of at least one gaming action of the slot machine on a main screen area wherein the beginning portion of the at least one gaming action being depicted graphically as a pitch delivered by a pitcher, with each pitch being represented on its own portion of the screen with the first pitch being displayed on the leftmost portion and each consecutive pitch being displayed on a portion to the right of the preceding pitch, each pitch not taking longer than 1.25 seconds to be displayed and a series of pitches not taking longer than 5 seconds, to a batter, awarding the user a payout when the at least one gaming action meets a first predetermined value, displaying on at least one additional screen area an end portion of the at least one gaming action displayed on the main screen area when the gaming action fails to meet the first predetermined value wherein the gaming action failing to meet the first predetermined value being graphically displayed as one of a ball or a foul or a pop out or a fly out or a ground out or a strike, displaying at least a beginning portion of a subsequent gaming action on the main screen area prior to the conclusion of the end portion of the gaming action being displayed on the at least one additional screen area, merging the at least one additional screen area with the main screen area to form a large screen area when the at least one gaming action meets one of the first predetermined value or a second predetermined value, the random number generator determining whether the at least one gaming action meets one of the first predetermined value or the second predetermined value, displaying the end portion of the at least one gaming action on the large screen area wherein the end portion being a walk or an attempted steal or a hit, permitting the user to select a faster play option wherein each at least one gaming action for a user-selected number of gaming actions being initiated without additional user input, awarding an additional payout to the user when the at least one gaming action meeting both the first predetermined value and a third predetermined value wherein the third predetermined value being a hit striking a bonus target, designating the pitch delivered by the pitcher as a bonus pitch when the gaming action meeting a fourth predetermined value, awarding an enhanced payout to the user when the at least one gaming action meeting the first predetermined value and the fourth predetermined value wherein the enhanced payout being at least one of a greater payout or an increase in the likelihood of a future gaming action meeting the first predetermined value, and displaying on the large screen area an additional game play when the at least one gaming action meeting both the first predetermined value and a fifth predetermined value, wherein the fifth predetermined value being a graphical display of a hit striking an additional game play target, wherein the additional game play being one of a homerun contest or a strikeout contest or a stolen base contest.

The foregoing and other objects, features, functions, and advantages of the invention can be achieved independently in various embodiments of the disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, and will be apparent from the following, more particular, description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a partial screen shot of one embodiment of the present invention displaying the first additional screen area and the main screen area;

FIG. 1B is a partial screen shot of the same embodiment of the present invention displaying the second additional screen area and the third additional screen area;

FIG. 2 is a screen shot of the same embodiment of the present invention displaying all screen areas being merged into a large screen area;

FIGS. 3-5A collectively form a flow diagram of the steps of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 6-8 collectively form a flow diagram of the display of an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a partial screen shot of an additional embodiment of the present invention displaying a first portion of the first additional screen area and the main screen area;

FIG. 9B is a partial screen shot of the same additional embodiment of the present invention displaying a second portion of the first additional screen area and the main screen area;

FIG. 9C is a partial screen shot of the same additional embodiment of the present invention displaying the second additional screen area and the third additional screen area;

FIG. 10 is a screen shot of the same additional embodiment of the present invention displaying all screen areas being merged into a large screen area;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a slot machine cabinet housing the present invention; and

FIG. 11A is a block diagram demonstrating the interrelation between various components of one embodiment of a slot machine of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrated embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals and symbols represent like elements.

Referring to FIG. 11, a depiction of what a slot machine cabinet 447 housing the present invention may look like. The slot machine cabinet 447 may have a siren light 448, which may be activated under predetermined circumstances, such as when a user has achieved a progressive jackpot payout. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also have a placard or other display 449 that may provide an explanation of the rules of the game, how a user may achieve different payouts or a progressive jackpot, and/or an amount for different payouts or a progressive jackpot payout. The display 449 may also have additional or different information on it. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also have a screen 450 as depicted. The screen 450 may be capable of displaying a plurality of screen areas, as shown in FIGS. 1A-2 and FIGS. 9A-10, each screen area responsible for displaying different features of the game, as will be discussed below. The screen 450 may also be capable of displaying some indicator of the likelihood of potential future gaming actions receiving a payout or having some other particular result. It should also be noted that the screen 450 may also be a touch screen, wherein the user operated features of the game may be controlled by touching appropriate areas of the screen 450. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also have additional screens 450, or a screen or screens 450 that are differently positioned or arranged. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also have a coin receptacle 451, a card reader 452, and/or a bill receptacle 453 to enable the user to purchase credits used to play the game. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also enable purchase of credits via different means. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also have a mechanical pitch button 454 and/or a pull handle 455 that may be used interchangeably to initiate the gaming actions of the game, and a pair of buttons 456 for adjusting the number of credits played on a particular gaming action. The user may also initiate the gaming actions and adjust the number of credits played on a particular gaming action by touching an appropriate area on the screen 450. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also have a coin payout bin 457 to allow the user to collect any winnings or remaining credits, and may also have a printing device 458 for distributing vouchers representing any winnings or remaining credits owed to the user. The slot machine cabinet 447 may also transfer winnings or remaining credits to the user via other means. The electronic features of the slot machine cabinet 447 may be powered via an electrical cord 459. It should be understood that FIG. 11 is merely an example of what a slot machine cabinet 447 housing the present invention may look like, and that a different slot machine cabinet may be used in conjunction with the present invention, so long as the slot machine cabinet 447 has a screen, means for powering the electronic components of the slot machine, means for receiving and dispensing credits, and means for controlling the user operated features of the game.

Referring to FIG. 11A, a block diagram demonstrating the interrelation between the pitch button 460 used to activate a gaming action, the main processor 461, the random number generator 462, the display control circuit 463 responsible for enabling image display on the display screen 464, including the display of the various screen areas and the display of an indicator of the likelihood of a result of potential future gaming action, is shown. The images displayed on the screen 450 (shown in FIG. 11) will be determined by the main processor 461 having a preprogrammed read only memory housing the instructions for the various displays of the various scenarios of the present invention and their corresponding results. When the main processor 461 selects a particular display or a particular arrangement of the plurality of screen areas according to a gaming action dictated by the random number generator 461 (discussed further below) in conjunction with the read only memory, a binary code representing the images is generated according to the instructions of the read only memory, the binary code dictating the color of each pixel of the screen 450 at a particular time. The information contained in the binary code is then transmitted to the screen 450 via a monitor cable coupled to the screen and coupled to the main processor 461. The display control circuit 463 coupled to the screen then deconstructs the information contained in the binary code and causes the various pixels of the screen 450 to be illuminated according to the colors dictated by the binary code. The combination of the various pixels of the screen 450 being illuminated as dictated by the binary code causes the various images of the various possible scenarios of the present invention, including the images of the plurality of screen areas and their arrangement, to be displayed.

Still referring to FIG. 11A, in one embodiment, a gaming action may be activated by a user pressing a pitch button 460 or by other means, causing the computer processor 461 to activate the random number generator 462. Once the random number generator 462 generates a random number, the computer processor 461 translates the number into a corresponding gaming action according to the read only memory. The computer processor 461 then causes the display control circuit 463 to display the corresponding gaming action on the display screen 464, in the aforementioned manner. It should be understood that other methods may be used for allowing a user to cause the random gaming actions to be displayed without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, partial screen shots of an embodiment of a slot machine displaying a plurality of screen areas and embodying the present invention are disclosed. While the Figures show a baseball theme, it should be noted that other types of events may be displayed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. FIG. 1A is the left side of a full screen shot and shows a first additional screen area 423 on the left side of FIG. 1A and a main screen area 424 on the right side of FIG. 1A. The first additional screen area 423 also displays the odds 409 of upcoming players in the lineup 446, as well as a credit display area which may show any credits awarded as they are awarded, the credit display may disappear during events not resulting in credits being awarded. The odds 409 assigned by the game may determine the likelihood that a player used in a gaming action may achieve a payout and may also determine the size of the payout to be awarded, wherein the less likely that a player may earn a payout, the greater the size the payout will be, if earned. This adds to the attractiveness of the game in that a user playing the game who otherwise may be done purchasing additional credits may be more likely to purchase additional credits if they notice that an upcoming player in the lineup has what the user considers to be favorable or desirable odds 409. FIG. 1B is a continuation of FIG. 1A, and is the right side of a full screen shot, and shows a second additional screen area 433 on the bottom of FIG. 1B and a third additional screen area 441 on the top of FIG. 1B. The use of the additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 with the main screen area 424 allows end portions of gaming actions to be displayed on one or several of the additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 while still allowing the main screen area 424 to display the beginning portion of a subsequent gaming action prior to completion of the display of the end portion of the previous gaming action on the additional screen areas 423, 433, 441. Although in the present embodiment the additional screens are listed as being on the left, right, top, or bottom in relation to the main screen, the additional screens may be displayed in different locations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a screen shot of a large screen area 401 of an alternative embodiment of a slot machine embodying the present invention is disclosed. The large screen area 401 is shown when the slot machine causes the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A) to merge with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) under various situations that may be achieved during the game. While in one embodiment a single main screen area 424 and three additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 are utilized, it should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a different number of main screen areas and additional screen areas may be utilized, or in which the screen areas 423, 424, 433, 441 or different screen areas are presented in a different manner.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, partial screen shots of another embodiment of a slot machine embodying the present invention are disclosed. FIG. 9A is the left side of a full screen shot, the full screen shot comprising FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, and shows a first portion 423 a of the first additional screen area 423 on the upper portion of FIG. 9A and a first portion 424 a of a main screen area 424 on the bottom portion of FIG. 9A. Again, the first additional screen area 423 may display the odds 409 of upcoming players in the lineup 446, adding to the attractiveness of the game. FIG. 9B is a continuation of FIG. 9A, and is the center of the full screen shot, and shows a second portion 423 b of the first additional screen area 423 on the top of FIG. 9B, a third portion 423c of the first additional screen area 423 near the center of FIG. 9 b, and a second portion 424 b of the main screen area 424 on the bottom of FIG. 9B. FIG. 9C is a continuation of FIGS. 9A and 9B, and is the right side of the full screen shot, and shows a second additional screen area 433 on the bottom of the FIG. 9C and a third additional screen area 441 on the top of FIG. 9C. Although in the present embodiment the additional screens are listed as being on the left, right, top, or bottom in relation to the main screen, the additional screens may be displayed in different locations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The use of the additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 with the main screen area 424 allows end portions of gaming actions to be displayed on one or several of the additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 while still allowing the main screen area 424 to display the beginning portion of a subsequent gaming action prior to completion of the display of the end portion of the previous gaming action on the additional screen areas 423, 433, 441.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a screen shot of an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. The large screen area 401 is shown when the slot machine causes the main screen area 424 (shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B) to merge with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C) under various situations that may be achieved during the game.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-5B, an embodiment of the method of playing a slot machine of the present invention is shown. In one embodiment, the method of playing a slot machine utilizes a sports theme generally and a baseball theme specifically, though it should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the method of playing a slot machine of the present invention incorporates another sports game or no sport game at all, such as a fighting game, with different graphic displays of acts or results representing different gaming actions or different payout values. Referring to FIG. 3, the game is initiated (see step 101). The game may be initiated by a user purchasing credits (see step 102), or applying credits previously purchased, and then selecting a number of outs, innings, batters, or at bats to be played (see step 104). In this embodiment, the user then selects a 60-player team from a group of 30 teams (see step 106), at which point the game randomly assigns odds 409 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A) to each of the 60 players (see step 108). The game then provides the user with an option to purchase a predetermined number of special players 422 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A) from a predetermined group of special players 422 (see step 110). In accordance with one embodiment, the player may select 3 special players 422 from a group of 12 special players 422. Each of the 12 special players 422 may have improved player attributes, hereinafter referred to as benefits 410 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A), making them better batters, runners, bunters, or base stealers, and therefore the special players 422 have a greater likelihood of achieving a payout. If the user purchases these credits (see step 112), the user may choose 3 special players 422 (see step 114), add them to the team of 60 players to create a 63-player team, and the game will randomly arrange the batting order of the 63 players (see step 116). The user may also be given the option of playing a plurality of credits for a single gaming action, with a greater number of credits being played on a single gaming action resulting in a greater benefit to the user, such as increased odds 409 (discussed above and discussed further below) or an increased number of available bonus targets 428 (discussed in detail below). In one embodiment, the different numbers of the plurality of credits for a single gaming action may be 2, 3, 4, 10, or 15. If the user opts not to purchase the credits, the game randomly arranges the lineup 446 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A) of the 60 players of the 60-player team (see step 116). Once this step is complete, the game is ready for play. It should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which only a single player is selected, instead of a team of players, or wherein the single player is not randomly assigned odds 409, or wherein the size and likelihood of the payout to be awarded is determined by other means, such as by assigning payout values for the various bases with the values changing for different pitches or different batters, or wherein the game is played indefinitely and without innings, or wherein a progressive jackpot is awarded to a user achieving a particular number of innings won or a particular number of no-hitters or a particular number of singles, doubles, triples, and/or homeruns achieved in a particular number of innings, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a different number of special players 422 or regular players, or even no special players 422, are offered, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 3, in order to begin play of the game, the user either presses the pitch button 445 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 9C) once for each batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) (see step 118) or uses the time out option 437 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 9C), to select a faster play (see step 120), in which the user selects a number of batters to which the game will automatically pitch without requiring the user to press the pitch button 445. It should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which there is no time out option 437, or in which no faster play is offered, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Once one of these options is selected, the game displays a series of fast motion pitches. In the present embodiment, 1 to 6 pitches 404 may be displayed (shown in FIGS. 1A, 9A, and 9B) to the next player in the lineup 446, with each pitch 404 taking approximately 1.25 seconds and each series of approximately four pitches 404 taking no more than 5 seconds, while the game also displays the player's odds 409 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A), benefit 410 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A), star ranking 403 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9A), and color coding (see step 121). In one embodiment, the series of 1 to 6 pitches 404 may be displayed on a plurality of simulated reels 426 (shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B) wherein each pitch 404 and its result may be shown on an individual reel 426, moving from left to right, and if a hit, walk, or out is achieved before the final reel 426 a of the plurality of reels 426, then results of the remaining reels 426 are either not displayed or not relevant, though it should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the series of 1 to 6 pitches 404 are displayed on a different number of simulated reels, such as 3 reels wherein up to the first 3 pitches are displayed from left to right, and wherein any necessary 4^(th) pitch is displayed on the leftmost reel, any necessary 5^(th) pitch is displayed on the center reel, and any necessary 6^(th) pitch is displayed on the rightmost reel, or in which the pitches take a different amount of time to be displayed, or in which the pitches are displayed in a different order or in a different manner altogether.

The star ranking 403 may distinguish better players from others, wherein 5 stars may represent the best players, 1 star may represent the worst players, and 2 and a half stars may represent the average player. If the batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) is a reserved player (see step 122) the game activates the gaming sequence associated with the reserved player (see step 124). Regardless of whether the batter 435 is a reserved player, if the pitch 404 being thrown to the batter 435 is a bonus pitch (see step 126) the game displays alerts wherein the batter 435, the pitcher 436 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B), and the bonus pitch countdown 431 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9B) are shown blinking (see step 128). The bonus pitch gives the player a chance to improve their odds of achieving a payout, as will be discussed further below. If the pitch 404 being thrown to the batter 435 is not a bonus pitch, then the bonus pitch countdown 431 on FIG. 1A, and the activate pitch countdown 432 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 9B) may be updated, indicating how many additional pitches 404 until the next bonus pitch is thrown and how many pitches 404 until the next pitch resulting in a reserved player being activated, hereinafter referred to as an “activate pitch,” (which will be discussed further below) will be thrown (see step 130). In this embodiment, regardless of whether the pitch 404 being thrown is a bonus pitch, the “landed pitches” display 427 depicting the location previous pitches have with respect to the strike zone is updated (see steps 128 and 130). It should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no bonus pitches or activate pitches are offered, or in which each pitch 404 or series of pitches 404 lasts an amount of time different than that explained above, or in which previous pitches are displayed in a different manner, or not displayed at all, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 3, once the pitch is thrown, the user may achieve a simple bonus, resulting in an additional payout of credits, by striking a simple bonus target 428 (shown in FIG. 9B). In the embodiment shown, the bonus targets 428 may be graphically displayed in the stands or on the field with the number of credits to be awarded by striking the target 428 displayed directly on the target 428 (see steps 132 and 134). If a simple bonus is achieved (see steps 132 and 134), the game may display a replay of the gaming action earning the simple bonus on the third additional screen area 441 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 9C) with the outline 443 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 9C) of the third additional screen area 441 shown blinking to draw the user's attention to the third additional screen area 441 (see steps 136 and 138). It should be understood that benefit may be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the third additional screen area 441 does not blink, in which the simple bonus targets 428 do not have their credit value displayed directly on them, or in which no simple bonus is offered, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 3, if a bonus pitch results in either a hit or a walk (see step 140), the user is able to choose different options. In accordance with one embodiment, the user is able to choose twice from 9 different options, hereinafter referred to as “activate bonus options,” having different features (see step 142). The 9 different activate bonus options are as follows: 1) the option to substitute a player in the lineup 446 with any other player on the 60-player, or 63-player, lineup 446; 2) the option to trade a player from a different team, wherein the player is randomly placed in the next 20 at-bats in the lineup 446; 3) the option to choose a pinch runner to be placed randomly in the lineup 446 as selected by the user; 4) the option to pick a pinch batter to be placed randomly in the lineup 446 as selected by the user; 5) the option to purchase 2 special players 422 to be placed anywhere in the top 20 of the lineup 446 as selected by the user, if purchased; 6) the option to choose a player in the lineup 446 to bunt, and if this option is selected, the user may choose which base may be occupied and on which pitch (first through sixth) the player will attempt to bunt; 7) the option to cause a player to attempt a sacrifice bunt, and if this option is selected, the user may select which base must be occupied (first, second, or third) as well as on which pitch (first through sixth) the player will attempt a sacrifice bunt; 8) the option to cause a player to attempt to steal a base, and if this option is selected, the user must select which base must be occupied (first or second) as well as on which pitch (first through sixth) the steal will be attempted, or the reserved player options may be randomly decided by the game on which pitch, or from which base, the steal will be attempted; and 9) the option to pick a single player from a group of 5 high-odd players to be placed randomly in the next 20 at-bats in the lineup 446. It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which different activate bonus options are provided, or in which no activate bonus options are provided, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 3, once 2 activate bonus options are selected, or if a walk or hit is achieved on a pitch 404 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) that is not a bonus pitch (see step 144), the display causes the three additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 9A, 9B, and 9C) to merge with the main screen 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B), so that only a large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) is shown, and the action surrounding the hit or walk is shown, and clips of live action of actual previous games 444 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) are displayed with longer clips and longer action being displayed for better hits (see step 146). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no clips of live action of actual previous games are displayed, or in which clips of computer generated virtual baseball plays are displayed instead of clips of live action of actual previous games, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Now referring to FIG. 4, the game then awards a payout. In accordance with one embodiment, the size of the payout is based upon odds 409 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) assigned to the batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B), the number of bases earned, the number of bases the runners on base 407 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B) are advanced, the runners on base may maintain their original payout odds regardless of what the payout odds of a current batter may be, the number of runs batted in, the number of runs scored, whether the user has scored more runs in the inning than the computerized opponent, whether a single, double, triple, or homerun was hit, and whether a grand slam was hit (see step 148). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the payout to be awarded is determined by other means, such as by applying a periodically changing credit value 450 (shown in FIG. 9 b) for each base (with first base representing a single, second base representing a double, third base representing a triple, and home plate representing a homerun) and without assigning payout odds to a each batter, or wherein no base runners are accounted for in determining a payout, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the game then determines whether there has been a hit that has resulted in the ball striking an additional game play target 434 (shown in FIG. 9B) (see step 150). If no additional game play target 434 has been hit, the game simply continues to the next batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B), and returns to the step of awaiting the pitch button 445 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 9C) to be pressed in step 118 (see step 152). If an additional game play target 434 has been hit, the game determines which type of additional game plays has been activated (see steps 154, 172, and 183). In the present embodiment, the game determines which type of the three different types of additional game plays was activated.

Still referring to FIG. 4, if the additional game play target 434 (shown in FIG. 9B) activates the homerun contest additional game play (see step 154), then the game presents 10 random batters and the user chooses one batter (see step 160). Once the batter has been chosen, the game randomly assigns the number of pitches the batter will receive during the homerun contest (see step 162). Once the number of pitches the batter will receive is assigned, the game randomly assigns a payout multiplier to the next pitch, and delivers the pitch to the batter (see step 164). If a homerun is hit (see step 166) the game awards a payout to the user based upon where the homerun lands as well as the number of consecutive homeruns hit (see step 168). After a payout is awarded, or if no homerun is hit, the game determines whether the batter has any pitches remaining in the homerun contest (see step 170). If a pitch is remaining, the game returns to step 164 and delivers another pitch, and repeats the process for the homerun contest, awarding higher payouts for consecutive homeruns hit (see step 168) until no pitches remain, at which point the game returns to the standard game and proceeds to pitch to the next batter in the lineup 446 in step 118 (see step 152).

Still referring to FIG. 4, if the additional game play target 434 (shown in FIG. 9B) activates the strikeout contest additional game play (see step 172), the game displays a predetermined number of random players, and in accordance with one embodiment, the predetermined number of random players is 10. After the user chooses a single player, the game randomly assigns a number of pitches to be thrown as well as the payout odds for pitching a strike (see step 174). The game then causes a pitch to be delivered (see step 176) and determines whether the pitch has resulted in a strike (see step 178). If the pitch results in a strike, the game awards a payout. The payout may be based upon the position of the strike, whether consecutive strikes are pitched, and whether the user has achieved a bonus known as a “super pitch bonus” (see step 180). After a payout is awarded, or if no strike was achieved, the game then determines whether any additional pitches remain (see step 182) and if a pitch remains, the game returns to step 176 and delivers the next pitch. If no pitch remains, the game returns to step 118, and pitches to the next batter in the main game (see step 152).

Still referring to FIG. 4, if the additional game play target 434 activates the stolen base contest additional game play (see step 183), the game displays a predetermined number of randomly chosen players, and in accordance with one embodiment, the predetermined number is 10. The user then chooses one of the 10 players, the game then randomly assigns a number of pitches against which the chosen player will attempt to steal a base, and displays the number of pitches as well as the payout odds and stats of the chosen player (see step 184). The game then randomly assigns a payout multiplier to the next pitch, and delivers the pitch (see step 186) and determines whether a base has been stolen (see step 188). If a base has been stolen, the game awards a payout. The payout may be based upon the number of consecutive steals and upon a random payout value assigned to the stolen base (see step 190). After a payout is awarded, or if no base has been stolen, the game determines whether any pitches remain for an attempted steal (see step 192). If a pitch remains, the game returns to step 186, but if no pitch remains, the game returns to step 118, and pitches to the next batter 435 in the main game (see step 152). Furthermore, the game may have other bonus features as well, such as an additional game play target that may cause a bonus batter to be used, potentially resulting in a number of innings or credits to be added to the innings or credits purchased by a user.

While in one embodiment the additional game plays are activated and progress in the manner aforementioned, it should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which other additional game plays are offered, in which different additional game plays are offered, or in which no additional game play is offered, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Referring back to FIG. 3, if no hit or walk is achieved in the game, the game determines whether the pitch 404 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) has resulted in a strikeout (see step 194). Referring to FIG. 5A, if the pitch 404 has not resulted in a strikeout, the game determines whether the pitch 404 has resulted in a different kind of out, such as a ground out, pop out, or fly out (see step 196). If the pitch 404 has resulted in such an out, the game may occasionally, and randomly, merge the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 9A, 9B, and 9C) to form a large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) to cause the user to believe they have achieved a hit (see step 198).

Still referring to FIG. 5A, if the pitch 404 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) has not resulted in an out, hit, or walk, the game determines whether the batter has fouled off the pitch 404 (see step 200). If there has been a foul, the game may occasionally, and at random, merge the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 9B, and 9C) to form a large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) to trick the user into thinking they have achieved a hit (see step 202).

While in one embodiment the main screen area 424 is merged with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 in the manner aforementioned, it should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the game does not occasionally and randomly merge the main screen area with the various additional screen areas when the user has not earned a payout, or in which the game merges the main screen area with the various additional screen areas under different scenarios, in which the game does not merge the main screen area with the various additional screen areas for random singles and displays such random singles on an additional screen area, or in which the game does not merge the main screen area with the various additional screen areas at all, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 5A, if the pitch 404 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) has not resulted in an out, a hit, a walk, or a foul, the game determines whether the pitch 404 has resulted in a ball (see step 204). If the pitch 404 has not resulted in an out, a hit, a walk, a foul, or a ball, then the pitch 404 has resulted in a strike not resulting in a strike out (see step 206). If the pitch 404 has resulted in a ball, a foul or if the pitch 404 has resulted in a strike not resulting in a strikeout (see steps 200, 204, and 206), the game determines whether the previous pitch 404 was a bonus pitch (see step 210). If the previous pitch 404 was a bonus pitch, the game returns to step 128 and continues to follow the aforementioned steps (see step 212). If the previous pitch 404 was not a bonus pitch, the game returns to step 130 and continues to follow the aforementioned steps (see step 214).

Referring to FIG. 5B, if the pitch 404 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) has resulted in an out of any kind, the game determines whether the user has any outs remaining (see step 216). If outs are remaining, the game determines whether the inning is over (see step 218). If the inning isn't over, the game returns to step 118 in order to pitch to the next batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) (see step 220). If the inning is over, the game randomly assigns a number of runs earned for the inning by the opposing team (see step 222) in order to award the appropriate payout in step 148, changes the pitcher 436 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) (see step 224), and returns to step 118 in order to pitch to the next batter 435 (see step 220). It should be understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no innings are used, but only a single out, or a number of outs, for a single batter 435, or in which no number of runs is assigned to an opposing team, or in which there is no changing of the pitcher 436, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 5B, if there are no outs remaining, the game determines whether there are additional outs available for purchase (see step 228). If there are outs available for purchase, the game provides the user the option to purchase additional outs (see step 230). The game then determines whether the user has purchased the additional outs (see step 232) and if the user has, the game goes to step 218 to determine whether the inning is over and proceeds in the aforementioned manner. If the user has not purchased additional outs, or if the game determines that there are no outs available for purchase, the game ends (see step 234).

Referring now to FIGS. 6-8, a flow chart describing how the game is displayed in an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown. Referring to FIG. 6, once the game begins (see step 235), the large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) is divided into a plurality of sections, and in accordance with one embodiment, the number of the plurality of sections is 4. In one embodiment, the 4 sections are created by first dividing the large screen area 401 into thirds using vertical lines to separate each third, and then by dividing the rightmost third of the large screen area 401 using a horizontal line. The main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) is the middle third of the large screen area 401. However, in another embodiment, the first additional screen area 423 consists of a small rectangular area 423c (shown in FIG. 9B) near the center of the large screen area 401 while the main screen area 424 consists of a reel area 424 a and 424 b (shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B) near the bottom left and bottom center of the large screen area 401 (shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B). In the first embodiment of the present invention, the first additional screen area 423 (shown in FIG. 1A) is the leftmost third of the large screen area 401. However, in the second embodiment, the first additional screen area 423 consists of a lineup display 423 a (shown in FIG. 9A) near the top left of the large screen area 401 and a field display area 423 b (shown in FIG. 9B) near the upper center of the large screen area 401. In both embodiments, the second additional screen area 433 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) is the bottom of the rightmost third of the large screen area 401, and the third additional screen area 441 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) is the top of the rightmost third of the large screen area 401 (see step 236). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a different number of additional screen areas are utilized, or in which the additional screen areas are differently displayed, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 6, during play of the game, in one embodiment the first additional screen area 423 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) displays the images of the infield 406 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B) with any players on base 407 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B). In one embodiment, the infield 406 and players on base 407 are shown on the field display area 423 b (shown in FIG. 9B). The first additional screen area 423 also shows a display of the names 408 of the next nine players in the lineup 446. In accordance with one embodiment, the lineup 446 is a 60-player or 63-player lineup 446, depending on whether special players 422 have been purchased (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) alongside their odds 409 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) and benefits 410 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A), available trades, the score 451 (shown in FIG. 9 b), and different alert display boxes (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) (see step 238). In this embodiment, the display of the names of the next nine players, their odds 409 and benefits 410, available trades, the score 451, and the different alert display boxes are shown in the lineup display 423 a near the top left of the large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 9A). In both embodiments the different alert display boxes alert the user as to whether a reserved player has been activated 413 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A), when the reserved action of stealing 414 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) is available, including the pitch 415 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) on which the steal will be attempted and the base 416 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) from which the steal will be attempted, when the reserved action of an attempted sacrifice fly or bunt 417 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) may be attempted, including which base must be occupied 405 and on which pitch 402 the sacrifice fly or sacrifice bunt will be attempted, whether there are any trade players in the lineup 418 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A), whether there is a new player on the roster 419 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A), whether there is a special player in the lineup 420 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A), whether there is a high odd player in the lineup 421 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A), and whether there is a special player available for purchase by the user 412 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which different or additional alerts, events, or scenery are displayed on the first additional screen area without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 6, on the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B), the game displays the beginning of each gaming action including the name 408, stats 425 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B), and odds 409 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B) of the batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B), the batter 435, the pitcher 436 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B), the umpire 429 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B), the pitch count 430 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B), and an alert display showing the bonus pitch countdown 431 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B), and the activate pitch countdown 432 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B) (see step 240). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which different or additional alerts, events, or scenery are displayed on the main screen area, such as a depiction of where the various pitches have landed in relation to home plate or the strike zone, as shown in FIG. 9B, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 6, one of the additional screen area 433 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) displays selected replays of pitches to a previous batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C), the batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C), the pitcher 436 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIGS. 9A and 9B), a time out option 437 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C), which allows the user to remove the need to press the pitch button 445 by selecting a faster play for a given amount of batters, the team roster option 438 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C), which, when selected, displays the entire team roster on the second additional screen area 433, a replay option 440 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) for displaying selected replays on the second additional screen area 433, and any plays that do not earn a payout (see step 242). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which different or additional alerts, events, or scenery are displayed on the second additional screen area 433, or in which no replays are displayed on the second additional screen area 433, and in which replays are displayed on the first additional screen area 423 and/or third additional screen area 441, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 6, another additional screen area 441 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) displays various replays, man on base footage 442 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C), simple bonus payouts, random near miss bonus footage, hit replays, good plays made, fans catching fouls or homerun balls, and magnified views of stadium footage with bonus payouts displayed on advertisements (see step 244). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which different or additional alerts, events, or scenery are displayed on the third additional screen area 441, or multiple additional screen areas displaying various angles of action, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 6, if a reserved player is activated (see step 246), the first additional screen area 423 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) displays the name 408 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) and benefits 410 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) of the reserved player blinking and in white/gold (see step 248). Furthermore, the “reserved player activated” alert display box 413 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) may be shown lit up and blinking until the reserved player is used (see step 248). If a special player is available for purchase (see step 250), the “special player available for purchase” alert display box 412 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) may be shown blinking until the user purchases the special player (see step 252). If a reserved player is in the lineup 446 (see step 254), the reserved player's name 408 and benefits 410 may be shown blinking and in red on the first additional screen area 423 and also on the team roster on the second additional screen area 433 if the team roster option 438 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) is selected (see step 256). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the events involving reserved players and special players 422 are displayed in a different manner, or in which no reserved players or special players 422 are offered, or in which other players or objects may be purchased by the user to increase the size of future potential payouts or to increase the likelihood of receiving a future payout based upon some event occurring at a time after such a purchase, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7, once a pitch is thrown (see step 268) the bonus pitch countdown 431 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B), and the activate pitch countdown 432 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B) may be updated on the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) (see step 270). The user may change the pitch view via the time out option 437 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) (see step 272), which causes the view on the main screen area 424 to toggle between a view from between the pitcher's mound and second base looking toward home plate and a view from behind the umpire looking toward the pitcher's mound (see step 274). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no bonus pitch countdown 431 is used, or in which no activate pitch countdown is used, or in which the user may change the pitch view via an alternative mechanism, or in which the pitch view can not be changed, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 7, if a replay is selected by using the replay option 440 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) (see step 276) the user may select which of the previous plays to display, and a replay may be displayed on the second additional screen area 433 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) (see step 278). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a replay is initiated by a different mechanism, or in which no replay option is provided, or in which a replay is displayed on a different additional screen area, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 7, if a simple bonus is achieved (see step 280) the outline of the third additional screen area 441 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) is shown flashing (see step 282).

Still referring to FIG. 7, if a trade player is in the lineup 446 (see step 284) the game then determines whether the player was automatically traded or if the player was selected by the user (see step 286). If the trade is automatic, the trade player's name 408 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) and benefits 410 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) are shown in light blue on the first additional screen area 423 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) and the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) (see step 288). If the trade is user selected, the game displays the trade player's name 408 and benefits 410 in red on the first additional screen area 423 and the main screen area 424 (see step 290). Whether the trade is automatic or user selected, the game shows the “trades in lineup” alert display 418 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) blinking on the first additional screen area 423 (see step 292). If there is no trade player in the lineup 446, the player's names 408 and benefits 410 are shown in dark blue on the first additional screen area and the main screen area (see step 293). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no trade players are used, or in which the events involving trade players are displayed in a different manner, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 7, if there is a special player in the lineup 446 (see step 294) the game shows the player's name 408 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) and benefits 410 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) in white/gold on the first additional screen area 423 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) and the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) with the “special player in lineup” alert display box 420 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9A) shown blinking on the first additional screen area 423 while also displaying slower pitches on the main screen area 424 (see step 296). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no special players 422 are used, or in which the events involving special players 422 are displayed in a different manner, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 7, if the pitch is either a bonus pitch or an activate pitch (see step 298) the game displays the pitcher 436 blinking (see step 300). If the pitch is either a bonus pitch or an activate pitch (see step 298) or if there is a player on base 407 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9B) (see step 302) the game displays slower pitches on the main screen area 424 (see steps 300 and 304). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which no bonus pitch or activate pitch countdown is offered, or in which the events surrounding a bonus pitch or an activate pitch are displayed in a different manner without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 8, if a hit results in a fly out or a pop out (see step 258) the game displays the field action on the second additional screen area 433 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) (see step 260). If a time out is selected by using the time out option 437 (shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 9C) (see step 261) the user chooses whether to use the faster play (see step 262). If the faster play is selected, the user selects a number of batters to be automatically pitched to, and the game eliminates use of the pitch button 445 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 9C) for that number of batters (see step 264). If the user does not choose the faster play (see step 262), the game requires the pitch button 445 to be pressed once before delivering a series of pitches to each batter 435 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) (see step 266). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the game displays the field action or other game features on an additional screen area or areas other than the second additional screen area 433.

Still referring to FIG. 8, if a hit results in a double, triple, or homerun (see step 306) the game causes the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) to merge with all of the various additional screen area to form a large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) which displays the batter 435 running, the entire field, most of the players, fans cheering, and spliced clips of real baseball footage 444 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10) with better hits earning higher payouts causing longer clips to be displayed (see step 308). Similarly, if a foul is hit (see step 310), the game will either cause the main screen area 424 to merge with all of the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B and FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C) to form a large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 10), as in step 308, and show the batter 435 running for the purpose of causing the user to believe they have achieved a payout earning hit or will cause the foul to be displayed on the second additional screen area 433 (see step 312). Whether the main screen area 424 merges with all of the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 or whether the foul is simply displayed on the second additional screen area 433 will be randomly chosen by the game (see step 312). Similarly, if an additional game play is initiated (see step 314), the game causes the main screen area 424 to merge with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 to form a large screen area 401 and displays the additional game play on the large screen area 401 (see step 316). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which any replays are displayed on a different additional screen area and no replays are displayed automatically on the second additional screen area 433, but only displayed if a replay option is chosen by the user.

Still referring to FIG. 8, if the game randomly causes the pitcher 436 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9C) to attempt to pickoff a runner 407 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 9C) (see step 318), the game causes the main screen area 424 (shown in FIG. 1A and FIGS. 9A and 9B) to merge with the various additional screen areas 423, 433, 441 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B and FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C) to form a large screen area 401 (shown in FIG. 2) and display the action surrounding the attempted pickoff as well as the result (see step 320). It should be clearly understood that benefit could be derived from an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which pickoffs are attempted, or in which an attempted pickoff is displayed by different means, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 8, once any of the steps of 308, 312, 316 and 320 are completed, the game returns to step 236 (see step 322).

Still referring to FIG. 8, if the user runs out of credits (see step 324) the game displays a prompt giving the user a minute to purchase additional credits (see step 326). If additional credits are purchased (see step 328), the game returns to step 236 (see step 322). If no additional credits are purchased (see step 328), the game may cause a game demo to be displayed (see step 330) and the process is ended (see step 332) until a user purchases credits. In another embodiment, the game may provide a chance for the user to earn additional innings or credits.

Statement of Operation

This new invention is a slot machine in which a player wins by achieving favorable baseball plays and bonuses. To cause the slot machine to be played quickly, only favorable baseball plays and bonuses, as well as portions of random non-favorable baseball plays, are shown in their entirety on the entire screen. Most non-favorable baseball plays have only a beginning portion shown on a main screen area while the ending portion is shown on an additional screen area to allow a subsequent beginning portion of a play to be shown on the main screen prior to the end of the ending portion of the previous non-favorable play being shown on the additional screen. 

1. A method of playing a slot machine comprising: permitting a user to initiate play of a slot machine having at least one gaming action; displaying at least a beginning portion of at least one gaming action of the slot machine on a main screen area; awarding the user a payout when the at least one gaming action meets a first predetermined value; displaying on at least one additional screen area an end portion of the at least one gaming action displayed on the main screen area when the gaming action fails to meet the first predetermined value; displaying at least a beginning portion of a subsequent gaming action on the main screen area prior to the conclusion of the end portion of the gaming action being displayed on the at least one additional screen area; and an indicator of at least one of the size or likelihood of a payout for a number of potential further subsequent gaming actions.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of: merging the at least one additional screen area with the main screen area to form a large screen area when the at least one gaming action meets one of the first predetermined value or a second predetermined value; and displaying the end portion of the at least one gaming action on the large screen area.
 3. The method of claim 2 further comprising the step of permitting the user to purchase a number of the at least one gaming action.
 4. The method of claim 2 further comprising the step of permitting the user to select a faster play option wherein each at least one gaming action for a user-selected number of gaming actions being initiated without additional user input.
 5. The method of claim 2 further comprising the steps of: providing a random number generator; and the random number generator determining whether the at least one gaming action meets one of the first predetermined value or the second predetermined value.
 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the slot machine is sports-themed.
 7. The method of claim 6 wherein the slot machine is baseball-themed and wherein the beginning portion of the at least one gaming action being depicted graphically as a pitch delivered by a pitcher to a batter with each pitch being depicted in a separate box area and each pitch being depicted in no more than 1.25 seconds.
 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the end portion of the at least one gaming action displayed on the main screen area when the gaming action fails to meet the first predetermined value being graphically displayed as one of a ball or a foul or a pop out or a fly out or a ground out or a strike.
 9. The method of claim 8 further comprising the step of graphically displaying a walk or an attempted steal or a hit as the end portion of the at least one gaming action on the large screen area when the at least one gaming action meeting the first predetermined value.
 10. The method of claim 8 further comprising the step of graphically displaying one of or a foul or a pop out or a fly out or a ground out as the end portion of the at least one gaming action on the large screen area when the at least one gaming action meeting the second predetermined value.
 11. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of awarding an additional payout to the user when the at least one gaming action meeting both the first predetermined value and a third predetermined value wherein the third predetermined value being a hit striking a bonus target in a graphically displayed stadium.
 12. The method of claim 7 further comprising the step of designating the pitch delivered by the pitcher as a bonus pitch when the gaming action meeting a fourth predetermined value.
 13. The method of claim 12 further comprising the step of awarding an enhanced payout to the user when the at least one gaming action meeting the first predetermined value and the fourth predetermined value.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the enhanced payout being at least one of a greater payout or an increase in the likelihood of a future gaming action meeting the first predetermined value.
 15. The method of claim 7 further comprising the step of displaying on the large screen area an additional game play when the at least one gaming action meeting both the first predetermined value and a fifth predetermined value, wherein the fifth predetermined value being a graphical display of a hit striking an additional game play target.
 16. The method of claim 15 wherein the additional game play being one of a homerun contest or a strikeout contest or a stolen base contest or a bonus batter for providing a chance for the user to earn additional credits.
 17. The method of claim 16 further comprising the step of awarding a bonus payout for at least one of homeruns achieved during the homerun contest, wherein the size of the bonus payout correlated to a location to which the homerun was hit and with a greater bonus payout being awarded for a greater number of consecutive homeruns, strikes achieved during the strikeout contest, wherein the size of the bonus payout correlated to a location of the strikes and whether a pitch bonus being achieved with a greater bonus payout being awarded for a greater number of consecutive strikes, and bases stolen during the stolen base contest, wherein the size of the bonus payout correlated to a number of consecutive stolen bases with a greater bonus payout being awarded for a greater number of consecutive stolen bases.
 18. The method of claim 7 further comprising the steps of: permitting the user to select a team from a group of teams having a number of players; the slot machine randomly assigning odds to one of each player of the number of players or to each gaming action meeting the first predetermined value, wherein the odds determining the size of the payout awarded to the user for each player causing the at least one gaming action to meet the first predetermined value or the size of the payout awarded to the user for each gaming action meeting the first predetermined value and the odds determining the likelihood of each player causing the at least one gaming action to meet the first predetermined value or the likelihood of each gaming action meeting the first predetermined value.
 19. The method of claim 18 further comprising the step of the random number generator assigning each player of the number of players of the team a benefit wherein the benefit being increased odds of meeting the first predetermined value.
 20. A method of playing a slot machine comprising: providing a random number generator; permitting a user to initiate play of a slot machine having at least one gaming action; displaying at least a beginning portion of at least one gaming action of the slot machine on a main screen area wherein the beginning portion of the at least one gaming action being depicted graphically as at least one pitch delivered by a pitcher to a batter; awarding the user a payout when the at least one gaming action meets a first predetermined value; displaying on at least one additional screen area an end portion of the at least one gaming action displayed on the main screen area when the gaming action fails to meet the first predetermined value wherein the gaming action failing to meet the first predetermined value being graphically displayed as one of a ball or a foul or a pop out or a fly out or a ground out or a strike; displaying at least a beginning portion of a subsequent gaming action on the main screen area prior to the conclusion of the end portion of the gaming action being displayed on the at least one additional screen area; merging the at least one additional screen area with the main screen area to form a large screen area when the at least one gaming action meets one of the first predetermined value or a second predetermined value, the random number generator determining whether the at least one gaming action meets one of the first predetermined value or the second predetermined value; displaying the end portion of the at least one gaming action on the large screen area wherein the end portion being a walk or an attempted steal or a hit; permitting the user to select a faster play option wherein each at least one gaming action for a user-selected number of gaming actions being initiated without additional user input; awarding an additional payout to the user when the at least one gaming action meeting both the first predetermined value and a third predetermined value wherein the third predetermined value being a hit striking a bonus target; designating the pitch delivered by the pitcher as a bonus pitch when the gaming action meeting a fourth predetermined value; awarding an enhanced payout to the user when the at least one gaming action meeting the first predetermined value and the fourth predetermined value wherein the enhanced payout being at least one of a greater payout or an increase in the likelihood of a future gaming action meeting the first predetermined value; and displaying on the large screen area an additional game play when the at least one gaming action meeting both the first predetermined value and a fifth predetermined value, wherein the fifth predetermined value being a graphical display of a hit striking an additional game play target, wherein the additional game play being one of a homerun contest or a strikeout contest or a stolen base contest or a bonus batter for providing a chance for the user to earn additional credits.
 21. A slot machine comprising: a screen; gaming circuitry coupled to the screen for controlling the slot machine and for generating a plurality of gaming actions displayed on the screen; and wherein the screen will display a plurality of screen areas, wherein a first screen area of the plurality of screen areas showing an indicator indicating a likelihood of a result or a plurality of results for one or more potential future gaming actions.
 22. The slot machine of claim 21 further comprising: a second screen area of the plurality of screen areas showing a beginning portion of the plurality of gaming actions; a third screen area of the plurality of screen areas showing an end portion of a gaming action for a first portion of the plurality of gaming actions; wherein the gaming circuitry allowing a subsequent gaming action to be initiated prior to a conclusion of the showing of the end portion of the gaming action for the first portion of the plurality of gaming actions; and wherein the second screen area displaying at least a beginning portion of the subsequent gaming action when initiated;
 23. The slot machine of claim 22 further comprising: a fourth screen area of the plurality of screen areas showing replays of previous gaming actions and showing an end portion of a gaming action for a second portion of the plurality of gaming actions and showing an option for causing a plurality of subsequent gaming actions to be initiated and showing an option to pause a current gaming action; a fifth screen area of the plurality of screen areas showing a magnified view of the replays of previous gaming actions shown on the fourth screen area and also showing an end portion of a gaming action for a third portion of the plurality of gaming actions; wherein the third screen area of the plurality of screen areas also showing a number of earned potential future gaming actions and also showing a real-time summary of the beginning portion of the plurality of gaming actions; and wherein the first screen area of the plurality of screen areas also showing a plurality of indicators indicating a plurality of bonus features relating to the plurality of gaming actions.
 24. The slot machine of claim 23 wherein the first screen area of the plurality of screen areas, the second screen area of the plurality of screen areas, the third screen area of the plurality of screen areas, the fourth screen area of the plurality of screen areas, and the fifth screen area of the plurality of screen areas merge to become single large screen area displayed on the screen, the single large screen area showing an end portion of a gaming action for a fourth portion of the plurality of gaming actions. 